When Apple announced the iPhone early last month with its new 8-pin Lightning dock connector, it seemed like a no-brainer that Apple would have a hefty supply of Lightning to 30-pin Adapters on hand to appease the masses. After all, Apple's decision to ditch its 9-year old 30-pin dock connector meant that customers wouldn't be able to use their existing accessories without an adapter on the iPhone 5.

Inexplicably, Apple was unable to deliver the adapters at launch even though the decision to use Lightning surely didn’t occur overnight. But nearly four weeks after the iPhone 5's release, Apple is just now getting around to shipping the adapters to customers.

Mac Rumors reports that a few Australian customers have received shipping notifications and an estimated delivery date of October 9 for the Lightning to 30-pin Adapter.

Apple's standard Lightning to 30-pin Adapter costs $29. Apple is also charging $10 more for a Lightning to 30-pin Adapter that includes an 8" cable if you need some extra length.

To add insult to injury, the lightning adapter is chipped so knockoffs cannot be made without licensing the rights from Apple. (I *think* a knockoff can be made that will charge the phone, but that's it.) Being chipped, also means it's more expensive to produce.

More of Apple's strong-handed tactics towards their long time users. Apple should at least given them a voucher for a cheaper adapter if they buy a new iPhone.